Can a Balloon Provide the Weight Loss Help You Need?

People who are obese, but aren’t ready to consider permanent surgical options may have a new avenue open to help them shed pounds. A relatively new procedure that is completely reversible, minimally invasive and requires no cutting or stitches is making very big waves in the weight-loss community. Known as the Orbera gastric balloon, this alternative to a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy has been producing tremendous results for people committed to following through with major dietary and lifestyle changes.

 The gastric balloon is designed to essentially mimic the effects of more dramatic procedures by temporarily shrinking the size of a person’s stomach. To achieve this, the balloon is inserted into the mouth, through the esophagus and into the stomach. Once in place, the balloon is filled with a saline solution that enables it to expand to about the size of a grapefruit. The balloon is kept in place for about six months, providing portion control as it does. Rather than involve inpatient hospitalization and a potentially lengthy recovery period, the gastric balloon only takes a few minutes to put in place, but can have results that are quite profound. On average, balloon patients lose between 15 to 20 percent of their body fat during the six-month period.

 While the weight loss results of the balloon are lower than bariatric surgical procedures, the balloon provides a springboard for people to begin a meaningful weight loss process. While the balloon is in place, people can concentrate their efforts on learning portion control, making healthier food choices and working exercise into their routines. This can, in turn, pave the way for continued weight loss or maintenance of weight lost once the balloon is removed.

 People who are obese have a new option available to help them in their quest to lose weight. A small balloon coupled with a strong commitment to effect change may make all the difference for some. To find out more about the gastric balloon and other weight loss options, be sure to consult with a licensed healthcare provider. 

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